Dong Tao chicken: characteristics of an indigenous breed with big legs in Hung Yen province (VietNam)

This study aimed to determine morphological characteristics, reproductive performance and egg quality of Dong Tao chicken, an indigenous chicken breed in Vietnam. This study was conducted on 10 households raising purebred Dong Tao chicken. A sample of 240 adult individuals was morphologycally characterized. Reproductive performances were assessed on 10 backyard chicken (1 cock and 5 hens), and egg quality was assessed on 60 eggs. The results showed that Dong Tao chickens have a variety of phenotypes, as indicated in their feather colors, tarsus colors and comb types. The size of Dong Tao chickens was large, the body weight and all body measurements of the cocks were greater than those of hens (P < 0.001). Their reproductive performances were low but egg weight, yolk weight and the maximum breakage strength were higher compared to other chickens breeds. The Dong Tao breed, in the present state of things, is endangered. It should improve its reproductive performance before considering the in- situ conservation.